CAMPANIA
OVERVIEW

Let's be honest. Food is the most important part, no? If you know us at all, we would have to say it is! Local cuisine is such an integral part of the culture. It defines years upon years of an areas history. That's why it is so so important for us to eat like locals whenever we travel. 

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• Don't eat at places: 1. With pictures of food on the menu 2. That have HUGE menus 3. Where menus are in multiple languages with various flags. 4. That has an employee standing outside encouraging you to enter. 5. That's open at 5pm for dinner. Italians eat around 8pm. Trust us on this one... these are places MADE FOR TOURISTS. They will not be serving up the local authentic stuff you want and deserve. You will even see places with signs that say "Tourist Menu"! Disgrazia! 

• Napoli is the birth place of Pizza Margherita! Pizza is an absolute MUST! Heads up: Asking for a Pepperoni Pizza means that you're literally asking for peppers on pizza. Pizzas are not served by the slice, they are served as small personal pizzas. Montara (fried pizza) is epic.

• Sorrento and Amalfi are known for their delicious lemons... so Limoncello is an obvious choice here. 

• Campania is where it is all started for Mozzarella di bufala aka Buffalo Mozzarella... and we think that's exciting. Don't you?

• Definitely go for any type of seafood. Calamari (squid) to Vongole (clams) you can't go wrong with any local seasonal fish. 

• We fell in love with Caciocavallo in Napoli and Ischia, it's another local cheese. It's a very mild provolone like cheese. Try the smoked version! Yum.

• Sfogliatelle aka. Lobster Tail. Although we still can't pronounce it correctly (try saying it HERE), it is of the utmost importance that you try one of these for breakfast. 

• Breakfast usually consists of pastry, fresh juice, an espresso and/or a cappuccino. Savory breakfast isn't very Italiano. You may see meats and cheeses at breakfast buffets. But generally won't find eggs and bacon anywhere, unless they're trying to please the Americans and/or the Brits. 

• Coffee: Cappuccino is never served after 11am (Marie)... Ever! You may find chilled coffees in some places, but nothing is ever served with ice. If you ask for a Latte you will literally be served a glass of milk. A "Bar" refers to a coffee bar by the way. It's customary to stand and drink your espresso at the counter and leave. Also, these bars will often serve Apertivo as well later in the day. 

• Types of eateries: Trattorias and Osterias (or Hosterias) are similar to each other. You can expect more casual, rustic, home cooking, peasant food, authentic, local dishes. Enotecas are on the same level, usually only serving small bites or charcuterie but with a heavy focus on wine. Ristorantes are usually a little fancier, more fine dining. 

• When you are finished with your meal you must request the check or you will be sitting there all night.  Europeans are not like Americans and will not rush you to leave. Ask for the check in English, or simply attempt it in Italian: "Il Conto Per Favore". The international hand gesture always works as well. 

• Water: The waitstaff will usually ask if you want Naturale/Still or Sparkling water.  Just be aware that there is a charge for water and don't expect ice.  Tap water is not an option, so kindly don't ask for it.

• People make a livable wage working in the food service industry (another reason why Italy is better). Tips are not expected, but if you feel that the service was exceptional, go right ahead! The general guideline is to not exceed 10% (we've spoken to many Italians about this topic).

• You will see a "coperto" on your bill. It is a basically a per-head service charge, and usually about 1-3 euro per person that is included in some establishments. 

• Always go for the house wine if the establishment has it! It's usually delicious and economical. We always do! 

• Italian-American dishes you will NOT find, nor should ask for: Fetuccini Alfredo, Chicken Parm, Meatball Parm, Garlic Bread, Spaghetti with meatballs, Penne Ala Vodka (Matt Buchheit). Italians don't usually mix chicken in pasta, nor do they pile grated parm on everything (NEVER on seafood). Sometimes you will get a sprinkle, but more often than not the meal is served as its intended to be consumed. 

• Please don't ask for butter. Bread is served at the beginning of the meal with Olive Oil. Simply add some salt to your olive oil on your plate and enjoy that incredible liquid gold! Olive oil trees are everywhere... the oil is so fresh.

• EVERYTHING IS SLOWER. Good things come to those who wait. Be patient.....very, very patient. You will get a chance to place your order. You will eventually receive your drinks and food. It will just take a little longer than us Americans are used to! Everything is fresh and made to order.

• Ketchup on pasta? If you believe that is a thing, then don't even bother booking your ticket to Italy. You will be immediately deported (as well as excommunicated) if you ask for ketchup. I don't think we even know anyone who would do this, THANK GOD.

• Make reservations for dinner weeks in advance! It's busy season!